The “Rick & Bubba Show” is calling it quits after 30 years, but fans of the popular morning radio show needn’t fret just yet. Hosts Rick Burgess and Bill “Bubba” Bussey have promised to remain on the air through the end of the year.

“We have decided that this will be the final year of the ‘Rick & Bubba Show,’ Burgess, 59, said on Thursday’s program, which is nationally syndicated and produced at WZZK-FM in Birmingham. “There it is. I just said it right out.”

“That’s it, and that’s the deal,” said Bussey, 59. “We will finish out this year, and we’re going to go wide open and have a great year, and have a lot of flashbacks and memories, and talk about the last 30 years that, by the way, you folks have made possible. And we don’t discount that.”

The two promised to make their final year on the show “a celebration,” looking back at the past and emphasizing the things that have made “Rick & Bubba” beloved by listeners.

“We’re not wrapping the show up today and everybody walking away,” Burgess said. “We’ve got a long runway. We’ve got a whole year to spend together — reminisce, talk, and I think we all agree, that’s where we need to focus, on celebrating all that has taken place. In this business, 30 years of the same product and very little change in the lineup is unheard of.”

The duo also made sure to thank their devoted listeners, in Alabama and elsewhere, for making the show a success.

“We’ve been very blessed, and you folks have been the ones who have blessed us, and we really appreciate it,” Bussey said. “There’s not words, there’s not actions I can do to fully transfer the feelings I have. I just don’t know how to say it. But we really appreciate it. It’s been incredible.”

Heading off questions from worried listeners, Bussey emphasized that everyone on the show is in good health, and said there’s no rift behind the scenes between the hosts.

“We are all fine here. We are friends. We will remain friends,” Bussey said. “There’s nothing bad here. This is just where we are, and it’s been a wonderful long run, and it had to end sometime. And this is the time.”

The “Rick & Bubba Show,” founded in 1994, airs live on weekdays, 5 a.m.-10 a.m. on more than 60 radio stations across 18 states, according to the WZZK website and the “Rick & Bubba” YouTube channel.

“The story of Rick & Bubba began in Gadsden, Alabama,” WZZK website says in an online tribute to the duo. “Rick Burgess, a talented radio personality, and Bill ‘Bubba’ Bussey, an experienced broadcaster and engineer, worked at the local radio station. Recognizing their chemistry, they joined forces to create a morning show that would soon captivate audiences far and wide.

“The Rick & Bubba show quickly gained traction among listeners with its blend of humor, insightful commentary, and genuine camaraderie. Their down-to-earth ‘Southern’ approach resonated with audiences, and the show’s popularity soared, earning them a devoted local following.

“As the show’s popularity continued to grow, Rick & Bubba expanded their reach beyond Birmingham with a syndication deal that began broadcasting to radio stations across the Southeast. This move marked a significant milestone for the duo, allowing them to connect with a broader audience while retaining the same authentic charm.

“With each passing year, Rick & Bubba’s influence continued to spread, earning them national recognition and acclaim. Their unique blend of humor, sports commentary, religious discussion, and insightful commentary on current events struck a chord with audiences across the country, cementing their status as one of radio’s premier morning shows.

“Beyond their daily radio broadcast, Rick & Bubba have expanded their brand into various media platforms, including podcasts, books, and live events. The Rick & Bubba podcast allows fans to enjoy their favorite moments on-demand, while their books offer a deeper dive into their comedic insights and personal anecdotes. Additionally, live events such as the Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo, book tours, live stage events, speaking engagements, and more provided fans with the opportunity to interact with the the ‘Two Sexiest Fat Men Alive,’ further strengthening the bond between the duo, the support staff, and their audience.

“As Rick & Bubba celebrate their final year on 104.7 WZZK and stations across the country, their success serves as a testament to the power of friendship, humor, authentic storytelling, and their faith in God. Through the highs and lows of life, they have remained steadfast followers of Christ while bringing joy and laughter to millions of listeners each day.”

Burgess also posted the news on his personal Instagram page, saying, “Celebrating the past and excited about the future! Thank you all for 30 years! Let’s celebrate the final year!”